I understand that it is a "code" but it is an ethics code.

I know for me, I take ethics pretty seriously. I want a T that takes ethics seriously because it protects both of us.

And if it's not taken seriously, then why have it? If it were just guidelines, it wouldn't be called a code. The codes distinguish what is and is not considered ethic per profession.

I suppose I'm taken aback by how lightly it has been taken here just on this thread.

If it's just a "guide", why then do counselors, social workers, psychologists, etc, who do not adhere to these "guides" have restrictions, probations, and even complete removal of their licenses when they are in violation of the code?

Because it's not just a guide. There are codes for a reason. You don't just get to pick and choose which ones seem ok to follow some of the time.

Lauliza, are you in a CACREP accredited program? I urge you to either take an ethics course or re-take it. It scares me that you're a Counselor in training and yet seem to only view the code as a guideline. I get that there are certain situations where for the benefit of the client, that some codes may need to be bent. But they are codes, not guidelines.